The fort design project was an assignment in which we were given the task of creating an 18th-century fort. To begin, I analyzed various villages from that period, such as Fort Chambly and Fort Charlesbourg-Royal. Once I understood the infrastructure, learning the occupations and the general way of life was the following task. Finally, it was time to construct the fort and chose to build it in Minecraft. I am most proud of the entrance to the village out of all the different components. With great attention to detail, primarily in the roof and exterior walls, I was pleased by the result. I believe that ultimately, this act of examing and then executing of the fort falls under the “critical thinking” core competency.

The longhouse is a very important aspect of an 18th-century fort. It can be used for community gatherings, special ceremonies, and political meetings. Additionally, considering its size, it can also be used for storage and residency. With a building of such importance, I spent extra time creating a more realistic external appeal. In particular, the slanted roof was the component that I truly took the time to construct. As there needed to be a food source within the village, I built a farm and farmhouse. Inside the farm, one could find an abundance of harvesting tools, such as sheers, axes, and hoes. I believe that ultimately, this act of examing and then executing of the fort falls under the “critical thinking” core competency.

Conclusively, I will now discuss the areas where I could have improved. Beginning with the interior of the structures, there was little to no detail in most of the buildings. If I were to do the assignment again, I would have added more detail. Items such as beds, chairs, and evening basic lighting could be potential upgrades. On the topic of detail, the general landscape within the perimeter of the fort was slightly bland. Adding trees and pathways would seemingly make the landmark more realistic.

Nevertheless, I am very proud of the final result and pleased with how the fort turned out.

Cell Reproduction Representation Reflection

For this particular assignment, we were given the task of creating a video that demonstrated the process of asexual cell reproduction. Essentially, asexual reproduction is the process of the cell replicating its DNA, and all of the contents within itself. Furthermore, the cell will then break apart to create a full functioning cell. This video provides a thorough analysis of the four-stage process known as PMAT. I believe that in this assignment, I utilized my creative thinking skills. Beginning with the introduction, catchy music and unique visuals were included. Having an intriguing intro is important, as it determines whether or not the viewer is interested in the material that you are showcasing.

Moving to the description of asexual cell reproduction, I believe that my creative thinking skills where reflected upon the representation of the cell. Using materials such as headphones and ribbon, I was able to accurately correspond the item to the part of the cell. In case the comparison was unclear, I composed a graph that was located in the top right-hand corner of the video. The legend defined for each item was intended for the convenience of the viewers. Additionally, I created a visual of myself dressed wearing a white coat, in a science lab. Not necessarily an important component to the project, however, it was merely a fun aspect.

“There is always room for improvement.” – Jason Kidd

Regardless of an outcome, whether it be in athletics, education, or the workplace as an employee, one can always look to improve. Ultimately, one should never be satisfied with a result, until they truly analyzed where it was they could have improved upon. Regarding the video, there was one component that I would alter if I was to do it again. Rather than using paper to represent the various chromosomes, I replace it with a different item. For instance, perhaps something such as spaghetti noodles or crayons. It would have ultimately added a more creative spin to the assignment.